A dramatic incident unfolded in Redruth, Cornwall, when a sinkhole suddenly opened up, swallowing a parked car. The vehicle, a Mini belonging to local resident Malcolm McKenzie, was partially consumed by the earth collapse outside Berrymans Bakery. Fortunately, no one was injured in the event, though the car park has been cordoned off due to fears of further instability.
Key Takeaways
- A sinkhole unexpectedly opened in a car park in Redruth, Cornwall.
- Malcolm McKenzie’s Mini was partially swallowed by the collapse.
- The incident is suspected to be linked to the area’s mining heritage.
- Police have secured the area, closing the car park and a nearby road.
- No injuries were reported, but the car remains trapped.
The Incident Unfolds
Mention of the incident came to light when a neighbour alerted Mr. McKenzie between 2:30 pm and 3 pm on November 1st. He described his shock upon discovering his Mini with its front end elevated in the air, with debris still falling into the newly formed chasm. The car had been parked against the back wall of Berrymans Bakery.
Safety Concerns and Road Closures
Authorities were quick to respond, cordoning off the car park and a nearby road. There are significant concerns that more of the car park could collapse, posing a risk to public safety. Mr. McKenzie noted that the police were unsure how to safely recover the vehicle, as bringing in heavy recovery equipment could exacerbate the instability of the ground.
A Town’s Mining Past
Redruth has a rich mining history, and it is suspected that an old mineshaft may have given way beneath the car park, causing the collapse. Mr. McKenzie recalled a similar incident occurring in a nearby car park during his youth. He expressed immense relief that no one was hurt, especially as he and his partner had narrowly avoided using the car for an outing just shortly before the sinkhole appeared.
Relief and Uncertainty
“I’m just glad we didn’t get caught in it,” Mr. McKenzie stated, reflecting on how a last-minute change of plans had prevented a potentially dangerous situation. While the immediate danger to life was averted, the car remains trapped, and the full extent of the ground’s instability is yet to be determined.
Sources
- Sinkhole swallows car outside Redruth bakery, Cornwall Live.
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Shocking Sinkhole Engulfs Car Outside Redruth Bakery